The original research involved measuring different models of stethoscopes with a computerized acoustic measurement system to objectively compare sound transmission performance and determine if there was a relationship between stethoscope price and performance. The findings call into question the traditional view of diaphragm versus bell chest piece function. You can read the abstract online at http://www.rcjournal.com/abstracts/2012/?id=1435766.

Also, a team of two recent respiratory therapy graduates and one current senior student competed in a knowledge competition at the International Congress representing all respiratory therapy students in the state of Alabama. This was the first team from UAB to have the honor to represent the state and it consisted of Sterling Wimbish (Class of 2012), Tadashia (Jabril) Cooper (Class of 2012), and Jordan Unlap (Class of 2013). Lessons learned in the competition will be shared with the next team being formed.